Everton Football Club, a founding member of the Premier League and nine‑time English champion, has entered the market for a new owner. The club’s statement on Friday confirmed that the Texas‑based Friedkin Group, which completed its purchase in December 2024, is now “exploring investment options and a potential sale of a controlling interest.”
Why the Friedkin Group is Looking Ahead
When the Friedkin Group took custodianship of Everton, the club faced “significant financial uncertainty and challenges both on and off the pitch,” the statement noted. The immediate priority was to provide stability, investment, and support to secure the club’s future, including advancing the long‑promised stadium project for the club’s supporters.
According to the club, that foundation is now “safely in place,” and the ownership group believes the timing is right to consider the next chapter. The Friedkin Group’s portfolio spans automotive, entertainment, hospitality, sports, and adventure industries, and it also owns Italian Serie A side Roma.
Everton’s Stance on Potential Buyers
Everton emphasized that any prospective buyer must be “the right stewards to take the club forward and build on the momentum that has been established.” The club’s statement makes clear that it will only entertain interest from parties that align with that vision.
Manager David Moyes Reacts
Everton manager David Moyes described the news as a “difficult summer” for the club, noting the recent sale of star forward Iliman Ndiaye. Moyes expressed surprise at the rapid timeline, saying, “They only came in a year and a half ago. Most owners come in a lot longer than that. I think we were all expecting them to be here for the next 20 to 30 years. I truly believed we had new ownership who were in it completely with us all.”
Local Connections and Political Interest
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham, a known Everton fan, attended a recent match alongside Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney, underscoring the club’s international profile. While the ownership discussion is primarily a business matter, the involvement of a Texas‑based investment group highlights the growing interest of American capital in English football.
What This Means for Everton Fans
For Everton supporters, the announcement brings both uncertainty and optimism. The club’s recent financial stabilization and progress on the new stadium suggest a solid platform, yet the prospect of a new owner could reshape the club’s strategic direction. Fans will be watching closely for any developments that could affect the team’s on‑field performance and long‑term ambitions.
Everton has not set a timeline for a sale, and the Friedkin Group has not indicated whether it will retain any stake after a potential transaction. The club’s statement concluded that the next chapter will be pursued only with partners who share its commitment to the club’s heritage and future success.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
